Perhaps, [Matoba agrees,] But, as with any bloodline trait, the ability to See can become diluted throughout the generations. [There's little reaction- negative or positive- in his expression as he explains, although his eye remains trained on his work.] Unfortunately, the grudges of the many ayakashi that have been sealed, banished, and chased off by their ancestors do not cease with a bloodline's abilities. Thus, it becomes necessary to be absorbed by a functioning clan such as the Matoba when there are no heirs to continue the business.

If they do not......

[He trails off, but Kim can probably fill in the blank. It was no wonder there were fewer and fewer exorcists left in business.]

[It wasn't something he'd ever explained in much detail to someone without Sight before, even though it was surely knowledge to some with a peripheral relationship to the business. Collectors, long-standing clientele, even the traditional craftsmen who once served the exorcist community all surely knew some of the dangers that came with the job.]

[His mouth upturns in a smirk at Kim's descriptor. Many had used that in a derogatory sense towards the Matoba in the past, but he didn't really mind the comparison.] Yes, that probably applies, at least sometimes. After all, we are the strongest and largest clan, so we have a responsibility to uphold some level of standards for the rest of the community, and to provide opportunities for information and jobs.

[Matoba tugs a tanto dagger out of his sleeve like it's totally normal, and uses the blade to cut the streamers, tying them off, and starting a new set. He sheathes the blade and tucks it back into his kimono.] Indiscriminate exorcism is for reckless newcomers trying to show off. I don't waste my clan's resources, or my own, unless there's a reason.

[A job, a favor, a useful tool, someone's gratitude. At the end of the day, it was all quite practical. It was business.]